Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said that permanent stability in the south of the country is closely linked to the completion of Israel's withdrawal from territories occupied during the last war, as well as the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the Lebanese news agency NNA reported, quoted by BTA.
Aoun met with Morgan Ortagus, deputy US special envoy for the Middle East.
"The release of Lebanese prisoners is an integral part of this agreement," the president said after the meeting. "The Israeli attacks must cease, including the killing of innocent people and soldiers, the demolition of homes, the devastation and burning of agricultural lands," he added.
Aoun confirmed that the Lebanese army is ready to deploy in the villages and towns from which Israeli forces are withdrawing, with the aim of completing the withdrawal by the deadline of February 18. "Constructive cooperation will continue with the international forces to implement Resolution 1701 in order to ensure stability and the gradual restoration of life in the liberated areas, which requires a comprehensive plan and minimum living conditions," Aoun said.
As for the formation of a new government, Aoun revealed that consultations are nearing completion. "The new government will be united and capable of realizing the aspirations and hopes of the Lebanese people, as I promised in my inauguration speech," Aoun said.